Teachers Who Inspire

This is the 10th year for the Mary F. Holton Inspirational Teacher Gift.

My brother (right) presented it to RickD, a high school social studies teacher.

 Mom loved learning and wanted others to be excited about learning too. She was a great advocate of teachers and felt teachers didn't get enough recognition and support. When Mom died, the four of us and Dad donated money to the London Schools Foundation. The interest from the money enables us to give $500 to a high school teacher each year. Each Spring high school students nominate teachers who inspire them to develop a love of learning. The teacher with the most nominations receives the gift.

When giving the check to the teacher we always tell the recipient that Mom's instructions are to spend the money on something for her/himself. It is not for school supplies. If Mom gave a cash gift to family, she often gave similar instructions. She felt that every once in a while you need to spend the money on something just for yourself. 

Mom believed in thank you notes also. She would have been very pleased with the notes Rick sent to the four Holton children. Here's the one I received. 

"I would like to thank you, your family and most importantly your mom for establishing and rewarding a teacher each year with the Mary F. Holton Inspirational Teacher Gift. It was an honor to be selected by the London students and to receive the award from your family.

I can tell from the yearly presentations by your family that your mother had a great desire to teach and continues to motivate and impact the teachers in our profession. Your mom is truly an inspiration to all teachers. 

I wanted to let you know that I honored your mom's wish and used the gift to enjoy myself this summer. I purchased a new golf bag, a small pool for my ... kids and some lawn chairs to relax in while they play in the pool. We used the rest to help with expenses during our vacation ... in midJune. 

It is refreshing to know that people like your family still respect and support teachers and that your mom's influence is still felt today in the classroom. Thank you and God Bless."

*************

Thank you Rick!

RickD (2014), ToddB (2012), HanaW (2009), AmyH (2013), StephenC (2008), TimC (2006)

**************

Click here for presentation in 2013